This report provides an assessment of the ethical dimensions of the RUMIGEN project, based on observations made by the project’s external ethics advisor throughout its five-year duration. It examines how ethical considerations have been integrated into RUMIGEN’s research activities, particularly in relation to animal health and welfare, climate resilience, genome editing, genetic diversity and epigenomics. The report also considers the project’s engagement with citizens and stakeholders and the importance of societal acceptance, transparency and responsible innovation in the development of future animal breeding technologies. Overall, it highlights how RUMIGEN has sought to combine scientific progress with animal welfare and broader societal values.